But on Friday, the Manchester City boss took a different approach to greeting a question regarding the Italy international's future at Eastlands.

Sky Sports' reporter failed to even finish his Balotelli-related question before a series of groans from fellow journalists was twinned with Mancini's response of "f***ing hell".

Despite Mancini's frustration over the barrage of questions he's been subjected to in recent weeks, the Italian went on insist that the forward will remain with the Premier League champions this month, despite interest from Serie A duo Inter and AC Milan.

"No, it [the reports] is not true. I am very, very happy [with Balotelli]," he said.

On Monday, Balotelli made a surprise appearance for City's Under-21 side and netted twice in a victory over Blackburn Rovers.

"He went with the Under-21s because he needed a game," Mancini explained.

"After 40 days without a game, he needed one game. He trained well and I hope this year will be different."